Toca. Come Sundays, the hotel offers up an indulgent brunch that, at $79, is one of the priciest in town. Originally introduced for special occasions, brunch grew into a regular affair due to its popularity. Drawing high society and the hoi polloi alike — along with, yes, tourists — the New Year is the perfect excuse for a hedonistic spread.">

Drink This: a classic Bellini from Toca

By Karolyne Ellacott

Published: Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2013, 09:58 AM

Toca's Bellini (Image: Karolyne Ellacott)

The holidays aren’t over yet. We’re still desperately clinging on to them while letting loose at the Ritz-Carlton’s restaurant, Toca. Come Sundays, the hotel offers up an indulgent brunch that, at $79, is one of the priciest in town. Originally introduced for special occasions, brunch grew into a regular affair due to its popularity. Drawing high society and the hoi polloi alike — along with, yes, tourists — the New Year is the perfect excuse for a hedonistic spread.

Along with the extensive selection of eats (think charcuterie, salmon, pancakes, eggs done every which way and, of course, a chocolate fountain), guests can opt to sip on mimosas or Bellinis (which are included in the price of brunch) while tucking in.

We opted for the Bellini, a traditional breakfast cocktail that originated decades ago at Harry’s Bar, a favoured Venetian haunt of Orson Welles and Ernest Hemingway. The owner was apparently quite taken with Giovanni Bellini’s paintings, naming his concoction after the artist. Toca’s version is classic, featuring Prosecco poured over either a white peach or a mixed berry purée. To the New Year!